BUSINESS TERMS & CONDITIONS
WELCOME to The Perfect Pause – Elite Dog Boarding SHEFFIELD
My #1 priority is the welfare and happiness of my own dogs and all my canine guests. I ensure I keep a safe and fun environment for all the dogs staying in my home, and I will do my upmost to ensure all the dogs in my care are kept happy and healthy while you are away. Please read through these Terms and Conditions and if you have any questions or concerns which are not covered here, please feel free to ask.
These Terms & Conditions will form part of your registration consent form.
Before I consider a booking for any dog to use my licenced boarding or day care services, a series of assessments will be carried out, to assess whether your dog will be compatible with my home environment and my business. During the initial enquiry and at dog registration we will discuss: Behaviours, History, Medical/Vaccinations, Enrichment & Exercise, Food & Diet, Boarding details. Aside from the Dog Registration form there will be other forms you need to fill in and sign. Please be aware that each dog will be observed holistically and assessed thoroughly, this is so I do not compromise the welfare of any of my own pets or guests in my care.
1. NEW CLIENTS
MEET & GREET: If your dog has not visited my services before, the first thing I need do is arrange a free of charge Meet & Greet appointment with you. My assessments are conducted in four or more steps.
Assessment step 1: An initial contact by phone from a potential client. I ask various pertinent questions to the client about their dog and fill out an enquiry form.
Assessment step 2: I will schedule in a meet and greet where the dog and its owner can come and meet me - Usually on a walk that is familiar to the dog. Or at their home, in their environment in which they are most relaxed
Assessment step 3: Chargeable overnight trial - Structured to run smoothly and led by myself which is to allow my dog’s and your dog/s to meet in the home that they will all cohabit together.
Assessment step 4: Registration.
2. DOG REGISTRATION
My Dog registration form is very detailed. It is important that every owner is honest about the good, the bad, and the ugly about their dog. This is so that I can make a firm decision as to whether the new dog would be compatible for my business environment and with my own two, small resident dogs.
The registration form contains my business terms and conditions, dog profile including behaviours, Veterinary Release form, Owners Consent, Enrichment & Exercise plan, Feeding chart, Medication chart, GDPR.
I will need to see your dog’s vaccination card, and passport with details of inoculations if born abroad or travels abroad.
Your completed Registration form will be kept on file for repeat services, therefore please advise me of any relevant changes to your circumstances in writing. By completing the Registration form you will be expressly confirming that you have read and agree to the current (published) Terms and Conditions prevailing at the time of any future booking, and that I may rely on the information provided in your registration form which may be subsequently updated by you if appropriate. It is, You, the owner’s responsibility to provide comprehensive details about your dog. You must be completely honest about any traits, vices or behavioural problems, both positive & negative (however small). I rely on this information to be able to manage any issues and provide a good experience and quality of service for your dog. Any misinformation may jeopardise your dog’s stay with me. As I live in a built-up area, I cannot take dogs who excessively bark or whine as it is inconsiderate to my neighbours & distressing to other dogs in my care. Hyper separation anxiety dogs are based on individual case-by-case basis.
During the meet and greet I ensure that I am watching and listening for any change of behaviours and will stop the Registration should anything negative occur. Particularly where:
· a dog is highly distressed which will impact its well-being
· displays negative behaviour
· scent marks inside my home
· is reactive to my resident dogs
· a dog is generally not happy about being with in a new environment with a new stranger
I need to ensure everyone - canines and humans included - are safeguarded within my home. The registration & assessment process will be terminated, and I will suggest other potential licenced home boarders, kennels or pet sitters. Not all dogs are suited within a home environment. It is paramount that each dog’s welfare is met to a high standard.
If the dog SUCCESSFULLY passes all its assessments & trials, we will discuss the easy steps to confirm the booking. Please see SECTION 3. which contains information about my charges and how & when to pay and my cancellation policy. If the trial is not successful, under regulations, I must retain some details however, most of the information will be destroyed.
3. BUSINESS HOURS, CHARGES, BOOKINGS, CANCELLATIONS
'OPEN TO THE PUBLIC' HOURS
The ethos of my business is to make you, and your dog is as comfortable as possible for your trip away. To ease the logistics for you, the owner, I will always offer my most flexible collection & drop off service. These times will be as flexible as my business can manage on the day. Equally I am happy to welcome you to drop your dog/s off
· Overnight boarding: 7am - 7pm
· Day boarding: 7am - 7pm
I will always endeavour to answer all calls and messages with extreme promptness. However, phone calls and messages may not be answered outside of these hours. Rest is imperative for canine & human alike. Dog home boarding can be sleep depriving and exhaustive therefore I will communicate around our rest parameters, and I will always respond to you within 24 hours.
Days of business
I am open throughout the year, though I will take holidays and breaks myself. I will inform my regular clients of any holiday’s dates in advance.
Daily Restrictions (number of boarders & day boarding dogs)
My boarding licence dictates that I can only board up to six dogs on any given day, though I prefer smaller groups than the number of six. I operate on a first come (booking fee paid), first served basis. Should I be at capacity, I will try to suggest other licensed boarders or direct you to a business.
CHARGES
ADULT DOGS SLEEPOVERS: £57 per dog per night & each additional family dog is an additional £28
DAY CARE: £36 per daycare & each additional family dog is £26
PAYMENTS
I accept cash payments or payments by BACS. My invoice contains my bank details.
BOOKINGS – HOME BOARDING
My RMBC licence dictates the number of (doggy) guest I can accommodate. Spaces are booked on a paid first come, first served basis.
Please make sure your holiday insurance and/or pet insurance covers any loss of boarding fees
IT’S ALWAYS BEST PRACTICE TO PURCHASE YOUR HOLIDAY INSURANCE A.S.A.P (NOT THE DAY BEFORE) INCASE OF CANCELLATIONS ETC.
BOOKING FEES
*50% Booking fee is payable to secure your chosen dates. I cannot hold a space for tentative dates. Once a booking fee has been paid, your dates are then secured and the payment is non-refundable and non-transferable.
50% Final Balance – due at the very latest, drop off/collection of the dog/s.
Once paid, this is non-refundable and non-transferable.
* I will send you an invoice and reminder for the remaining balance to be paid prior to your dog's stay. You will have had plenty of advance warning of this from the day your quotation was provided. If you do not consider it important enough to send your final payment when I have requested it, then I reserve the right to confirm your booking is cancelled with immediate effect, re-open your dates to the public and decline any further booking requests from you. I do not chase payments.
* If you cancel your booking before 14 days in advance of the booking - I reserve the right to keep your booking fee. You will not be charged the outstanding 50% payment to settle your bill
* If your booking must be terminated due to your dog’s behaviour, after you have paid the remaining 50% balance due, then your payment is non-refundable and non-transferable. Please see my Cancellation Policy.
* If your booking is made with less than 14 days to your chosen dates - payment in full is required, all monies will be non-refundable or non-transferable should you cancel.
SPECIAL HOLIDATES
Bank Holidays, Christmas and New Year
These are special times of the year - demand for Christmas bookings is particularly high and often made a year ahead. Therefore, I will not accept tentative bookings for any of the holiday dates. I will only accept Christmas/New Year bookings if they have been secured with a 50% non-refundable booking fee within 48hrs and the 50% remaining non-refundable balance paid 4 weeks (28 days) prior to your holiday. If you then subsequently cancel, please see my Cancellation Policy. If you’re booking for Christmas/New Year is made with less than 28 days – payment is required in full.
SHORT NOTICE BOOKINGS
Existing clients - I will always do my best to accommodate your dog, subject to availability of spaces.
New clients - please be aware that, due to the assessment requirement to undertake prior to accepting any first booking, I will do my best to fit it all in, but it will be subject to my diary availability and may not always be possible to achieve within a short timescale.
CANCELLATION POLICY
The Perfect Pause – Elite Dog Boarding SHEFFIELD, should not be expected to suffer the financial loss of cancelled bookings for circumstances which occur outside of my control. Therefore, I respectfully request that, in the event of a cancellation made by you as described below, that you please do not ask for a refund or a transfer to another booking.
For clarity...
Any payments you have made to secure a booking, (whether it be booking fee or full amount), are non-refundable and non-transferable to another booking in the following instances: -
* You cancel your booking.
* I must cancel your booking (either prior to, or during your dog's stay) if: -
a) your dog exhibits unsociable/unacceptable behaviours.
b) your dog is due in season or comes into season.
c) your dog has an Infectious Health Problem.
d) your final balance payment is not paid on the due date prior to your dog's stay, and I cannot extract a satisfactory response from you.
If I am unable to fulfil your booking prior to the commencement of your booking (due to an emergency on my part) I will endeavour to ensure you are contacted as soon possible in order that you may be able to make alternative boarding or daycare arrangements. The booking will be cancelled, and you will be refunded in full. I will always try and locate an alternative, recommended and licenced boarder in replacement of the booking, however this is not always guaranteed.
If I am unable to continue boarding your dog (due to an emergency on my part) whilst your dog is staying with us, your Emergency Contacts will be contacted to come and collect your dog for the remainder of your booking. The booking will be cancelled, and you will be refunded for the remaining days I could no longer board your dog.
BOOKINGS – DAYCARE: PAYMENT & CANCELLATION POLICY
Spaces for day boarding are limited. I will only agree to a date if I have space.
All day care requires full payment within 24 hours from the time you request the dates.
I will confirm a booking via WhatsApp or text, stating the requested day, times and adding my banking details for BACs transfer.
All day care is a non-refundable, non-transferable service should you cancel.
Should I need to cancel due to any emergency that may arise I will refund you your total amount paid for the days which I cannot facilitate day care.
DROP OFFS/COLLECTION
Boarding Times – Arrival is between 7am. Departure is between 7pm.
Day Boarding/Daycare Times – Drop off from 7am. Collection by 7pm - latest.
Any arrivals or collections outside of these hours are charged at an additional unsociable hour’s rate.
I operate on an appointment only system so please specify your actual times when booking if possible. If you delay providing your arrival/collection times, you may find you then have to fit around other owners who have already confirmed their times.
Unsociable hours is chargeable at the discretion of the business.
CONCIERGE SERVICE
Included in the nightly boarding charge.
I do not offer a drop off or collection service for daycare. In addition, I occasionally operate weekend day care.
4. UNSOCIABLE/UNACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOURS
Unsociable/unacceptable behaviours are those which have a negative impact on other dogs or humans in my home. It is my highest priority to avoid potential negative issues arising and preserve the safety, happiness and well-being of all the dogs staying within my home. I want my own dog’s and all my guest dog/s to feel safe and enjoy their time here in a safe, relaxed and harmoniously happy environment. I want your dog/s to happily live in my home with me as if they were one of my own. I appreciate no owner can be 100% certain how their dog/s will behave in a different environment, in the company of other unfamiliar guest dogs and without the owner present.
There is always a risk that your dog may act in an unexpected or unpredictable manner not familiar to you. I am experienced in understanding dog behaviour but I am not here to provide behavioural training while your dog stays with me. So, if it is identified that your dog poses a threat to the enjoyment of others whether it is before, or during your dog's stay, I reserve the right to cancel your booking, or the remainder of your booking, and request that you or your Emergency Contact collect your dog immediately. No refund will be given either for remaining days.
Example of unacceptable behaviours (but not limited to):-
* Severe separation anxiety - if your dog is so unhappy in your absence that it is unable to settle here after several attempts to distract, (howling, crying, excessive barking, hides, avoids, will not socialise etc) then it would be kinder to your dog to seek a pet sitter instead.
* Any history of aggression or possession regarding toys, balls, food, or a bonded second dog from the same household.
* Aggression with other dogs. As I have resident female dogs, I expressly cannot accept dogs who may be aggressive or show any aggression towards them, or any guest canines.
* Aggression shown to humans is a complete ban (snapping, teeth-baring, growling, biting etc).
* Howling or whining dogs, as this distresses all in the house.
* Untrained - refusal to comply with human requests without bribery within my home (moving off furniture, coming indoors etc, and therefore cannot be controlled if necessary to do so in an emergency).
* Zero basic manners or respect for other dogs/humans in a home environment ('wired', non-stop/ cannot settle/pacing, hyper activeness).
* Excessive obsession with other dogs, especially licking private areas of other dogs, particularly where the other dog has indicated to your dog to stop.
* Excessive humping (not play humping).
* Challenging behaviour Resource Guarding, sleeping-places, food, toys, car, humans, human space & furnishings.
* Excessive barking – I must consider my neighbours.
* Excessive fear/avoidance - if your dog will not willingly allow itself to be approached, touched or picked up when needed.
* Unwillingness to be touched or picked up, which causes reactivity and a potentially dangerous situation to humans
* Not house-trained – including dogs above 6+ months.
* Scent-marking in my home.
* Using my home as a toilet
* Untrained on a walk where the owner has signed the dog can be off-lead. Zero recall, through any attempts using any means of bribery.
Termination of Boarding (INCLUDES day care)
If you fail to disclose any negative behavioural problems past or present, during the meet and greet, on our registration form, or 1 day prior to the intended stay. Should your dog show any sustained aggressive tendencies, exhibit threatening outbursts, bites my dog/s, harms other dogs, or humans, is continually uncontrollable, destructive or shows unreasonable behaviour, (including continuous mounting, marking, bullying, pestering other dogs etc) the boarding agreement will be terminated with immediate effect. You will be advised accordingly, and your emergency contacts will be called to collect your dog/s. If I cannot reach your emergency contacts One or Two, you accept that your dog will be placed in an appropriate local kennels and £100.00 transfer charge will be applicable for which I will invoice. All other costs incurred for the alternative boarding/kennel will be entirely your responsibility. You also agree to pay the cost of any injury/damage caused by your animal to me, my home, my dogs, or other boarders.
TO REITERATE: NO REFUND WILL BE GIVEN, SHOULD YOUR DOG BE REQUIRED TO LEAVE MY HOME EARLIER THAN PLANNED FROM A SITUATION THAT RESULTED OR WAS AN OUTCOME, THROUGH NO FAULT OF MY OWN.
DESTRUCTIVE BEHAVIOURS & DAMAGES
I am with your dogs throughout the day. However, there will naturally be times where your dog will be unsupervised, as it is impossible to keep my eyes on your dog 100% of the time. Should your dog destroy or damage any furnishings, flooring, electrical items (such as cables & floor standing fans, remote controls, mobile phones) furniture (indoors or outdoors), clothes, personal items or footwear, hosepipes, decking, etc, as an owner you will be liable for any damage caused. I will also not board your dog again.
5. EMERGENCY CONTACT RESPONSIBILITIES
Without an emergency / secondary contact I unfortunately cannot board your dog.
Your emergency contact must be known to you. It is your responsibility that they are suitable to take your dog in the event an unforeseen circumstance or an emergency.
In the case of an emergency medical situation, I will always try to contact you, the owner/s first. If I cannot reach you - I will then call the Emergency Contacts you have nominated to act as your spokespersons in your absence and on your behalf.
Please ensure the person you nominate is:-
a) Not you or your partner if you are joint owners.
b) Are not under the age of 18.
c) Is made fully aware and has sufficient capacity to understand their responsibilities they may have to make health and welfare decisions about your dog on your behalf.
d) Are not part of your holiday group going away with you at the same time your dog is boarding.
e) Contactable and available whilst you are away.
f) Lives within a reasonable distance from your home.
g) Can travel or make travel arrangements if required.
NON-COLLECTION OF THE OWNERS DOG
If you do not come to collect your dog on the collection date agreed, unless I have been contacted and advised in advance, your nominated emergency contacts will be contacted to collect your dog. If they fail to collect, or I cannot get in touch with them via their contact details that you have provided, your dog will be given to our dog warden, where you will be responsible for any costs accrued.
IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT YOU CONTACT ME FOR ANY DELAYED COLLECTIONS.
6. HEALTH & WELFARE
a) Vaccinations – at registration you will need to provide me with an up-to-date veterinary vaccination record to show that your dog has current vaccinations against the core diseases of DHP (Distemper, Hepatitis and Parvovirus) and Leptospirosis. If any of the vaccination dates expire before commencement of a booking, then evidence of a booster will be required prior to accepting your dog for daycare/boarding.
b) If you are starting your dog’s vaccinations again due to missing their yearly boosters, or not keeping up to date with them, you will require a double dose to be given two weeks apart, then those vaccinations must be completed at least 2 weeks before I can accept your dog for daycare/boarding.
For dogs who have had a DHP or Lepto booster vaccination regularly each year, and where proof is given, I can accept for daycare/boarding immediately from the date given.
* proof of vaccinations and treatments may be submitted via text, email, WhatsApp.
I will take titre tested only dogs – upon receipt of supporting documents.
Failure to produce a copy of the vaccination record will jeopardise your booking.
c) Flea & Worming - All dogs must be up to date with treatment for fleas and worming.
* Your dog must have been appropriately treated for external & internal parasites with an appropriate product authorised by VMD UK and in accordance with veterinary advice before any entry to home boarding, whether it be for overnight or day care.
At our registration (where possible) you are required to bring the vaccination booklet so we can keep a copy on record, or you can send us photographic evidence of your dog’s vaccinations via WhatsApp. Further proof of vaccinations and treatments may be requested and must be presented no later than 14 days before arrival, via e-mail, text, WhatsApp.
Failure to produce a copy of the vaccination record will jeopardise your dog’s booking.
d) Infectious Health Problem - If your dog develops or shows any signs of a health problem regardless of whether ‘infectious’ or not (i.e.: fleas, worms, kennel cough, sickness, diarrhoea)
On the first day of holiday boarding or when they are dropped at daycare, you as the owner agree that you will be handing over your dog/s to The Perfect Pause – Elite Dog Boarding SHEFFIELD, in good health. We will not take any dog who has been ill within the last 72 hours, nor continue to board a dog who shows signs of any illness within the first 12 hours of arriving, nor a dog who has had an infectious disease within 21 days prior to boarding, this is to protect other dogs in my care, my own dogs, and myself. As the owner you must ensure that you disclose any current illnesses or ailments, at the initial dog registration and, or before a dog comes to board with me. Any medication for such ailments will need to be supplied and detailed on the Medication form & signed by the owner. I will ask you to sign the consent form “administrating medication/ supplements”. If any illness appears or has not been disclosed upon drop off and appears to be or is diagnosed as contagious, your emergency contact will be asked to collect the dog with immediate effect. I reserve the right to refund you any monies.
If the dog cannot be collected, The Perfect Pause – Elite Dog Boarding SHEFFIELD, reserves the right to refer the dog to the businesses registered vet, or the out of hours vet, or your own vets for isolation, at the owner's expense until such time as the dog can be collected by the owner or emergency contact.
No refund will be given in this circumstance and all veterinary costs will be met by the client.
Failure to disclose any illnesses will jeopardise your dog’s stay. If your dog is infected and spreads it to others, you will also be liable for any vets’ costs to any other owner and myself.
e) Dogs born abroad & Canine Brucellosis– According to RVCS and Government Public Health there is a risk (however small) that some dogs who are born in*, or brought in from certain countries around the world, may be a carrier of Canine Brucellosis, which is a zoonotic disease (meaning an infected canine carrier can pass this disease on to humans.) For any dogs imported or who travel abroad, I need to see their passport, but if your dogs comes from certain countries of concern, named in the Government UK public health & UK Health Security Agency), I will need to see your dog’s passport with a negative test showing for Canis B. (Unfortunately, not all imported dogs are tested before they arrive in UK) As I have a low immunity I will need to see a negative blood test result for this zoonotic disease regardless, before I consider boarding your dog. I may ask you to take advise from your Vet, before boarding takes place and I ask that you send written evidence from the vets should they require a blood test & the results. There is both a low risk & a high risk in which PHE (public health England,) must be made aware of.
Information about the disease.
Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
https://www.bva.co.uk/news-and-blog/blog-article/brucella-canis-what-vets-need-to-know/
*If your dog was born abroad, I will need to see their passport, and a record of any inoculations/vaccinations which would have been given to them before and after they entered the UK.
f) IVDD (Intervertebral Disk Disease) – French Bulldogs and (not limited to) “Daxie’s “(other breeds may also be affected). I have knowledge about IVDD and whilst every possible care is taken to ensure your dog is well looked after, it is entirely possible that they could have a first-time IVDD episode or a relapse of an existing IVDD situation whilst they are here, or when they return to you. Through no fault of anyone's, sadly the rupturing process can happen over a period of weeks or in the space of a moment, and this can be undetectable initially. A dog that appears healthy and happy one minute can suddenly present unusual symptoms and signs of pain. This means you agree to take the risk of leaving your dog in my home environment with potentially up to 4 other Canines of different sizes and energy levels, that you understand the risks associated with IVDD and that I cannot be held responsible for IVDD situations which may occur unless found wholly negligent.
g) BRACHYCEPHALIC BREEDS –
French bulldogs, English bulldogs, Boston terriers, Pugs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Shiatzu’s and Boxers. I have knowledge and experience of working with these breeds. Whilst every possible care is taken to ensure your dog is well looked after, it is entirely possible that a dog who suffers from breathing difficulties (BOAS) due to their characteristic flat face, may experience breathing complications at any time whilst they are boarding with me. I take great care of all my dogs, and they are monitored. I am very conscientious and careful about how long their walks are, when I walk them (I.E. very early in the morning or late in the evening mindful that outdoor temperatures do not exceed 18 degrees at any time during my walk), what type of walk I do (whether it be just a gentle amble sniffathon through shaded areas in the warmer months, or a little ball play in the cooler months) the exercise & enrichment they take part in, whether it be indoors or out, the humidity within the air, the temperature within my home etc as these breeds of dogs can become overheated very quickly and are seriously prone to heatstroke. Through no fault of anyone's, a dog that appears healthy and happy one minute can suddenly present serious breathing difficulties and signs of pain, particularly if they have an added issue of being overweight or older, or having a physical disability, or having a known or unknown medical condition. Thus said, as an owner you must take the decision as to the associated risks of boarding your dog with up to 5 additional dogs with different energy levels, at any time. You agree, that I cannot be held responsible for any BOAS situations which may occur unless deemed wholly negligent. It is to be noted, I rarely operate at capacity which is 6 dogs, that includes my own.
h) Medication
I am experienced in giving tablet & liquid medication orally, ear/eye drops as well as injections such as insulin should it be required. If your dog is on medication, alternative medicines of any kind you will need to fill out & sign our Medication form and sign the consents within this dog registration form. If they are using a ‘buster’ collar or onesie you will need to inform me and bring this with them.
I) Nail Clipping
Please ensure your dog nails are clipped/filed to remove rough or sharp edges before boarding with me. This will avoid accidental injury to humans i.e Me! - or other dogs.
j) KEEPING DOGS SAFE
Should anything happen to your dog whilst in boarding you will be notified ASAP, and everything will be done in my power to manage the situation. I am fully insured, but noting that dogs will be dogs, and they can play roughly, if your dog is hurt i.e. cut paw, ripped claw, or an accidental puncture wound from playing, you will be notified, and if a vet visit is required during day boarding you may be expected to attend, and you must make payment directly to the vets. I am constantly with the dogs during the day/night so I’m on hand to manage any situation. If I do need to go out and leave the dogs, they will be either placed in separate rooms (as per regulations), or together if I have your consent (see dog registration form) or I will ensure my keyholder is with them. If death is a possibility during day boarding (due to illness/old age etc) please notify me in writing and agree arrangements for care. If your dog dies in my care we will treat the situation with sincere humanity, dignity and care.
k) NOSE TO TAIL CHECK. GROOMING
Daily, I check each dog’s body from Nose to Tail and remove any matted hair, debris, natures. You will need to give consent for this to happen in this dog registration form.
l) Veterinary RELEASE & Instruction
The Perfect Pause – Elite Dog Boarding SHEFFIELD requires to be registered with a local veterinary practice, which is Medivet High Green (Beech House Veterinary Clinic), 106 Greengate Lane, High Green, Sheffield, S35 3GT – 0114 2844855.
It is the owner’s responsibility to contact their own veterinary practice prior to the booking to inform them that their dog will be boarding with The Perfect Pause – Elite Dog Boarding SHEFFIELD.
If the dog becomes ill or injured while boarding with me, it will be necessary for me, the business to contact my registered vet and possibly the owners’ vets for advice (if there is a known on-going medical issue). If necessary, I may need to take them in for a medical appointment at my registered vet practice or the owners depending which is closer or agreed on this registration form. Kelly Hirst of The Perfect Pause – Elite Dog Boarding SHEFFIELD, will contact the owner (if possible) in the first instance, prior to contacting the vet, and the owner will assume full responsibility and pay for any required treatment.
Kelly Hirst of The Perfect Pause – Elite Dog Boarding SHEFFIELD cannot be held responsible for any veterinary treatment that may result in loss, injury or death of your dog.
m) TRANSPORTING YOUR DOG TO THE VET
If I must make a trip to the vets with your dog, providing you haven’t already supplied a harness which fits your dog, I will use mine – or cages (depending on the illness). This will be used to attach the dog to a seatbelt restraint within the vehicle. Any harnesses or collars which require the seatbelt restraint to be secured by the dog's neck is not acceptable. No dogs will be left in the car unattended at any time.
If you dog needs to be transported to your vet for consultation, you will agree to be charged £0.50p/mile (round trip)
7. UNNEUTERED DOGS:
MALES: The Perfect Pause – Elite Dog Boarding SHEFFIELD, does not discriminate against “entire males” therefore I MAY accept them. This is subject to the comprehensive Meet & Greet process and extensive discussion.
The dog’s age will always be another contributor towards the result of this scenario.
FEMALES -: I do accept unspayed females regardless of age. I will not accept any female in season. (please see below)
FEMALES 'IN SEASON'
I will not accept any female in season, nor females coming into season, this is to comply with our regulations and licence conditions, and my business model. Regardless, whether you have paid a booking fee or full amount, it is your responsibility to inform me if your female is in season or is coming into season.
If you do not know when your female is due, I would advise taking advice from your vet and watching for changes in her behaviour. I would also recommend you carry out a white tissue test to check if there is any pale pink or red spotting for a few days prior to bringing her for daycare or boarding.
It is down to my discretion whether I board an unspayed female post season up to 8 weeks after their season has ended.
If your intact female comes into season whilst she is boarding: -
* Before the commencement of her stay, then I will be unable to accept her for at all, from Day 1 of her season. (season duration may vary, please ask your vet for advice) This means your booking will have to be cancelled. If this happens, please see my Cancellation Policy.
* During her stay, then for her own safety I will have to request that you or your emergency contact to come and collect your female dog the same day that I notify you. This means the remainder of your booking will have to be cancelled. If this happens, please see my Cancellation Policy.
* If your female dog comes to stay after her season and still omits certain desirable smells to other dogs, then you will need to find alternative arrangements for her on the same day that I notify you. There will be no refund.
PLEASE NOTE - By making payment to secure a booking, you are confirming you are happy to take the risk that your intact/entire female may come into season at the time of your booking, which will mean your booking will be cancelled, and you do so on the understanding that your payment/s will not be refunded or transferred to another booking. Please see my Cancellation Policy.
I will never KNOWINGLY board an in-tact male & un-spayed girl together.
Please be aware all dog’s behaviour is different in a new environment and may/will not be the same as they are at your home, or at another licenced boarder’s home/kennels.
8. IMMATURE DOGS / PUPPIES
Occasionally and entirely at my own discretion, will board immature dogs under the age of 6 months. Between 3-12 months your dog ideally should have received training by a professional. They will have been crate trained and they will be toilet trained. They must have been socialised and habituated to different situations, environments and may other dogs of different types. If you have trained your dog at home, I will check their obedience levels and skills whilst on assessment.
All immature dogs/puppies from 14 weeks old must have completed their primary course of vaccinations. The needs of your young dog will be discussed in depth and agreed with you before boarding. I will establish any specific or extra requirements your young dog needs, such as feeding, exercise levels, rest-time etc. A young dog requires a lot more care and attention to interactions, so I will keep a close eye on your immature dog to make sure it's happy and not showing signs of distress, separation anxiety or adverse behaviour. If it does display any of these signs, I will of course keep you informed and updated.
9. EXERCISE & ENRICHMENT
Your dog will where possible receive up to 2 daily walks during their stay, where temperatures/ weather allows & my physicality. All dogs will be walked on a lead when they are out, unless you have given signed consent and if you’ve signed the Off Lead Waiver agreement that they can be off leash at certain times. However, if I pay for secure field your dog will have time off lead (see owner consent). I will always leash your dogs near roads. As some of our walks are a car ride away, we ask that owners supply a transport harness for their dogs, so they can be appropriately and safely restrained using a dog seat belt in our vehicle. If you cannot provide a halter and they’re in an unavoidable incident in my vehicle, you will forfeit any claim on our insurance. For any dogs who show extreme expression of their dislike to being within my vehicle, we will be restricted to the local area of Swallownest, Aughton & Aston for all exercise.
Please be aware that Canines who are new to day care/boarding may experience higher levels of physical and mental activity than perhaps they are used to at home. Therefore, it is to be expected that your dog may go home more tired than usual. Your dog will receive a range of different brain games, stimulation, socialisation, play, enrichment etc. throughout their stay too. If your dog has any noticeable resource guarding issues of humans, toys, balls, treats etc which is spotted during our assessment, consideration will be given to not board your dog. All dogs who use my services must be able to coexist appropriately with others in a relaxed but fun safe environment. If in the case that I only see these new resource guarding behaviours during any boarding, enrichment will be withdrawn as a group session and become 1:1 based. Other dogs will be separated, and vice versa. I will not board your dog again. Currently the dogs I have, who use our services regularly share toys, and balls without anxieties or resource guarding tendencies.
EXERCISE OFF LEAD
We will only let your dog off lead if you the owner have consented to it. If you have, then we will only do so when I feel comfortable and confident to do so, and when we have built up trust between myself and the dog. So, if this is your dog’s first stay with us or they have not been for a while, we will work up to them being off lead if you have signed the owner’s consent. (Starting on lead, to a long line attached to me, to unattached longline, to off lead entirely) Your dog/s will be put back on a lead if I feel the dog is not responding to my commands, even where consent off lead exercise had been granted by owners. We will ask for consent to allow your dog off lead in a secured dog park/field too. See dog registration. All the secure field have been tested by myself and my dog or other dogs prior to your dog’s stay who is/are not allowed off lead. We will also pay for the hired field as part of the dog’s enrichment and exercise when they stay with me.
10. FOOD & NOURISHMENT
At feeding-time, all dogs will be separated to avoid aggression or competition, unless I feel it beneficial for them, and if I have received owner’s consent.
Owners must provide their dog's own food with complete feeding instructions. Please ensure I know how often your dog needs feeding, as well as if they are fussy eaters, graze or sometimes don’t eat. An immature dogs may require extra feeding throughout the day.
If your dog requires freshly cooked food, please ensure you either prepare this at home and bring it with you frozen – Or we have an advanced discussion for me to cook it for you. If your dog eats raw or other frozen products, please know that I have suitable facilities including fridges and freezers to store your dog’s food. I also provide feeding and water bowls. If your dog uses alternative aids such as large wobble kongs, please bring this with them. If they are particular to only eat from a certain bowl or plate from home, of course they can bring it with them. I do have plenty of alternative bowls.
If your dog is a fussy eater and will not eat the food you supply, and for them to eat I will need to feed alternative food, introducing it slowly, if they continue to stay. At registration I will seek consent from you if this may happen. I will inform you, if there is an issue and ask if you would like us to feed your dog an alternative. This will incur an additional charge which I will invoice you at the end of their stay and which will need to be paid for within 2 days of return.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Please let me know if your dog has any special requirements such as dietary or medical.
Medication - If your dog is currently on medication for any reason, please let me know so I can continue your dog's medication while you are away.
11. MY PROVISIONS
I will provide a loving & caring home from home environment where I will treat your dog as part of my extended family. I will provide safety, security, mental stimulation, basic command training, nutrition, adventures, entertainment, physical exercise, enrichment, companionship, socialise them with other dogs, and humans & nurture them. I will interact with your dogs, feed them and make sure they always have fresh water & provided them with any medication required.
I am not a qualified behavioural practitioner, nor a qualified trainer, so any training that I will do with them is basic commands and environment etiquette.
HUMAN COMPANY 24/7
Your dog will only occasionally be left without human company for up to 3hrs, so I am able to go to the shops for provisions. If they are left in an emergency or an exceptional circumstance, such as taking another dog to the vets, your dog will remain safely with my resident dog and guest dogs, or separated from them, according to your instructions & consent on the Dog Registration Form. Where necessary I may contact my keyholder to come and sit with them.
ENSURING THE HEALTH & WELFARE OF ALL DOGS
All dogs are monitored constantly throughout their stay. They are regularly checked for injuries and, if there are any signs of abnormalities, sickness, rapid weight loss or gain sufficient for concern, the owner/emergency contact is informed and a decision for the best course of action is discussed where possible. It may be necessary to seek veterinary advice, and this will be followed, and the owner kept updated.
If you or your Emergency Contact cannot be contacted within a reasonable amount of time, you agree I am authorised to seek appropriate and swift veterinary attention and proceed with treatment regardless of the costs, which you are liable for and agree to fully cover. I will do everything needed for your dog regarding treatment, comfort and recovery. Any vet fees incurred during your dog's stay will be covered by you, the owner. You agree to accept responsibility for, and agree to bear, all financial veterinary costs if veterinary treatment is provided for your dog arising from emergency medical care judged to be medically necessary by the attending vet.
The Perfect Pause – Elite Dog Boarding SHEFFIELD will not be held liable for any accident, injury or illness during the period of daycare/boarding so long as immediate veterinary attention has been sought, if there is an accident, injury or illness caused by our own negligence I will of course give you my business insurance details so that you can pursue a claim.
COLLARS AND IDENTITY TAGS
All dogs by law, must wear a collar & ID tag. I will provide your dog with one of my own collars – if they do not arrive with one in suitable condition. I will attach on of my own ID tags during their stay with me. It displays, my name, the name of my business to which your dog is boarding at and two of my telephone numbers – Business & Personal. I will also attach one of my Apple AirTags to your dog’s harness (or collar) for all outdoor walks. If I feel it necessary, I will keep the AirTag on them 24/7 – taking into consideration the stature of the dog. I.E the weight of an AirTag on a Chihuahua’s collar wouldn’t be suitable as opposed to a larger breed like a Labrador, Boxer or gun dog etc.
I want to maintain the safety of all dogs in my care as much as possible.
· Collars are removed if your dog is crated.
· Collars are/may be removed if your dog likes to rough and tumble during play in my home, to mitigate any unnecessary injury.
· Collars are removed to avoid the risk of dogs catching their teeth or other body parts within another dog's collar.
However, if I have to take your dog to the vet, or on a walk, your dog will wear a collar with an identity tag.
UNDER 16 YEAR OLD HUMANS
The Perfect Pause – Elite Dog Boarding SHEFFIELD has a policy regarding children under the age of 16 entering my home – Please see my risk assessment for children. Some guest Canines can be a little unnerved around children. To prevent the risk of a young human possibly getting bitten in all the excitement, I respectfully request that no children under the age of 16 - who are unknown to me, come to my home. I have no human children under the age of 16 myself, who reside at my property. All friends & family members who visit my home and are under the age of 16 have been risk assessed prior. They understand my business and the boundaries I have created to keep them safe within my property and they will listen to all instructions given to them – without question.
CANINE DEVELOPMENT & OTHER PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT
I want your dog to have a positive experience in my home, with my resident dog and others that may be staying with me. I am very experienced in handling dogs, have lots of understanding about canine body language, and know how to competently mitigate risks. However, if at any time, your dog displays any negative behaviours that cannot be managed I will talk to you about the next steps. If I feel that your dog is no longer enjoying their time with me, or is no longer compatible, I may suggest other licensed boarders or send you a link for a networking group on Facebook whose aim is to connect owners with Licenced businesses. Please be aware that home boarding is not suitable for all dogs, and this may change through their lifetime too as they mature, so I may suggest a licenced solo boarder or a Pet Sitter as an alternative. I also think it is healthy & pro-active to have a secondary licensed business to support you should I not have availability.
12. WHAT OWNERS PROVIDE
All food is to be provided by the owner (please ensure you bring enough for their entire stay, and a little extra should you be delayed). If they are fussy eaters, and where you have agreed, (see owners consent) I will purchase a different type of food, to which I will introduce slowly to your dog and I will invoice you for after their stay. Please also bring bedding, blankets, crates, harnesses, & or transport harness, collars, leads. A small variety of toys (to be controlled by me) plenty of treats, grooming equipment and any relevant medication. I will ensure I keep an itinerary of their own possessions.
We must accept that dogs are dogs, with some having a penchant for chewing, hiding or tearing soft toys. Please be aware that any possessions you bring for your dog which are damaged in my care will be considered accidental and not replaced or reimbursed by The Perfect Pause – Elite Dog Boarding SHEFFIELD.
Insurance
I will ask you, the owner to provide your policy details prior to boarding your dog so that I can keep the details on file.
ANY CHARGES INCURRED BY AN UNINSURED DOG WILL BE THE SOLE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE OWNER.
VACCINATION CARD
It is your responsibility to provide me with a copy of your dog’s up to date vaccination card, at registration and subsequent years when they renew, plus inform me of their vaccination status before boarding.
13. PHOTOS AND VIDEOS
I take lots of photos and videos of your dogs throughout their stay with me, and I like to keep you updated with the nicest/unblurred ones wherever possible! I also like to upload some of those photos and videos to social media, after you have collected your dog. I ensure that any identifying details personal to you such as your dog's name tag information are blurred out. All photos and videos remain the copyright of The Perfect Pause – Elite Dog Boarding SHEFFIELD and, as such, can be used on any public media platforms or publications, but only if you have consented to this which can be found on the dog registration form.
14. Paperwork (required for LicenCe)
All clients must complete & sign all relevant paperwork, including my terms & conditions, GDPR (privacy notice), dog registration form, which includes the veterinary release form & owner’s consents (compliancy of Animal Welfare regulations) and if required, a canine medication form etc. By signing the dog registration form, terms and conditions (which may be updated and sent out separately) and any other necessary forms that pertain to The Perfect Pause – Elite Dog Boarding SHEFFIELD you agree to accept and are contractually bound by my terms & conditions. You also agree that the information recorded during our meet and greet at dog registration and leading up to a secured arrival for boarding is accurate.
15. LICENSING, INSURANCE, QUALIFICATIONS & TRAINING
All businesses who provide boarding or day boarding services, whether it is a kennel or in a home setting (not the dog’s own home), must be licensed under the Animal Welfare Act (1963) & comply to the regulations set under The Animal Welfare Regulation 2018 & future editions.
The Perfect Pause – Elite Dog Boarding SHEFFIELD
is licensed by Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council, and therefore, trading legally within the remits of the law.
is insured for Public Liability **UPDATE & INSERT UPON LIC GRANTED** Insurance
holds a library list of CPD and is always learning and gaining knowledge relevant to practice.
holds a certificate for Animal First Aid & CPR.
By leaving your dog with a Licensed business means that your dog is protected by their own Pet Insurance and our Business Insurance. I am also compliant to the law and trade legally.
Confidentiality policy.
Client confidentiality will be always maintained. Your details will be kept private and will never be used for any purpose other than caring for your dog.
16. CHANGES TO CHARGES & or BUSINESS TERMS & CONDITIONS
My charges for day care and or boarding may change from year to year, and I will ensure you receive a text, WhatsApp or email stating the changes.
My Terms & Conditions are at times reviewed & updated. We will ensure you receive an updated version & you may be required to sign a new copy when we next board your dog.
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